Pakistan on High Alert After Heavy Monsoon Rains Forecast

Thu Aug 22 2024
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ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall in most parts of the country over the next three days. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) keeping in view the situation has issued a high alert.

The Meteorological Department has predicted more rain in various areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab from August 21 to 24. NDMA has said that there is the possibility of increased water flow in local rivers and streams, as well as the Kabul River, because of heavy downpours.

According to NDMA, there is a risk of flooding in various districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Abbottabad, Charsadda, Chitral, Dir, Haripur, Hazara, Parachinar, and others. Flooding is also likely to occur in Malakand, Mansehra, Mardan, Peshawar, and Swabi.

NDMA has ordered all relevant agencies to remain on alert and ensure immediate response to any potential emergencies. Tourists and travellers have been advised to avoid visiting mountainous areas because of the risk of landslides.

On the other hand, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has said that most districts of Punjab are expected to receive rainfall in the next 24 hours.

The Director-General of PDMA, Irfan Ali Kathia, has said the River Indus is experiencing a low-level flood situation, while the water flows in the Rivers Chenab, Jhelum, Sutlej and Ravi are at normal levels. The administration is on high alert because of the floods in the hill torrents.

The PDMA stated that a moderate flood passed through the Potohar and Sohri northern regions on Wednesday. An above-normal flood surge also passed through the Zangi area yesterday. The situation in Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur hill torrents is normal.

Irfan Ali Kathia said that the water level in Mangla Dam is at 71%, while Tarbela Dam is at 100% capacity.

According to PMD, the minimum and maximum temperatures in Lahore will vary from 26 degrees Celsius to 34 degrees Celsius. The wind speed in Lahore city has been recorded at 5 kilometers per hour, and the humidity level is 74%.

Regarding the weather in Balochistan, the Meteorological Department has predicted that most districts of the southwestern province will experience hot and humid weather. Ares such as Barkhan, Khuzdar,  Loralai, Lasbela, Musakhel, Naseerabad, Qalat, Sherani, Sibi, Ziarat and Zhob, are expected to witness strong winds, thunderstorms, and rainfall.

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